Openly Gay Politician Votes Against Gay Marriage Bill In Hawaii

This is a first. An unfortunate first.

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By
Alex Rees

Nov 08, 2013

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The Hawaiian House of Representatives is currently debating a bill that would allow gay couples in the state to marry. Though the bill, which faces a final vote today, has successfully passed two votes, one lawmaker not yet in support is Rep. Jo Jordan, from Hawaii's 44th district. Rep. Jordan is a lesbian.

She's the first openly gay politician to vote against marriage equality legislation— a vote that literally ensures discrimination against her remains legal. Her vote also comes despite her implication that the bill is "something I personally believe in," and polls showing 75% of her constituents also support it. Speaking during the House's discussions, Jordan described herself as "undecided," specifically over whether changes from the state's current system of separate civil unions were necessary. (Advocates for the bill argue yes, because even following the Defense of Marriage Act's repeal, those in civil unions will not qualify for most federal marriage benefits.)

In her speech, Jordan continued that she was sure "nobody's going to throw [her] out of the LGBT community." This is probably true, but she may struggle to find a spot on a float in next year's gay pride parade. Furthermore, she said that she should "have the right to [vote no]."